Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has condemned the brutal attack on gospel singer Rachel Wandeto after she was allegedly set ablaze by unknown assailants in Mwiki, Kasarani, Nairobi.
The CS visited Wandeto at Kenyatta National Hospital on Sunday evening, where she is receiving treatment for severe burns sustained during the attack.
According to reports, the incident occurred on May 16 when unknown attackers confronted the gospel singer over her public support for President William Ruto before pouring petrol on her and setting her on fire.
Wandeto reportedly suffered burns covering nearly 70 percent of her body. She was first rushed to Uzima Uhai Hospital before being transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital for specialized treatment.
Murkomen Condemns ‘Barbaric’ Political Violence
In a strongly worded statement, Murkomen condemned the attack, warning against growing political intolerance and divisive rhetoric in the country ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“Our vibrant democracy, backed by a robust Constitution, allows for free expression of political opinion that cannot be taken away by anybody,” Murkomen stated.
He added that the government would take firm action against leaders or individuals spreading hate and political radicalization.
“We will therefore take all measures to rein in divisive and incendiary political rhetoric, which is spreading hate and radicalization,” he said.
Murkomen further assured the family that the government would support Wandeto’s treatment and recovery process.
The CS was accompanied during the hospital visit by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and other senior security officials.
Police Investigating Possible Political Motive
Investigators are currently pursuing several leads to establish the exact motive behind the attack.
Authorities say political intolerance remains one of the key angles under investigation, although police have dismissed unverified claims circulating online suggesting the incident may have stemmed from personal disputes.
Murkomen emphasized that no Kenyan should suffer violence for expressing political beliefs.
“Whatever the motive, no Kenyan should go through such an ordeal because of her beliefs,” he said.
Meanwhile, Wandeto’s family has appealed to Kenyans to donate blood as she prepares for further surgeries and intensive treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.
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